There is an expectation for young people to remain in Education until they are 18 years old. Although this does not mean you have to remain at school, and you can explore other options. Young people who are 16 or 17 can work but they must -

• Take a job with training - for example an Apprenticeship or
• Take a part-time course while they are at work

Further Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) support

A young person with an education, health and care plan (EHCP) will continue to share their views to help shape their future and they are likely to need support to help them with this. They can access education, health and care support up to the age of 25.

Within Year 11, if you have SEN support or an Education Health and Care plan (EHCP) you will be referred through your school to Connexions careers service to discuss transition planning to post 16 education and training. 

The below options will be discussed in further detail with you and your parent/carer. You will be provided with advice and guidance on your options to ensure you are making informed decisions. You and your parent/carer will be directed to appropriate provision that matches with the young person’s aspirations.

You can:

• Stay in education, but not necessarily at the same school – although many young people in special schools do choose to stay where they are until they are 19 years old
• Go to college for a full-time education course or to do a Study Programme.
• Do a Study Programme or Traineeship with a training provider.
• Take an Apprenticeship or job with regular training.
• Undertake a Supported Internship.
• Take part in a Supported Employment programme.
• Volunteer and train at the same time.
• Take a job, become self-employed or do some volunteering – and do some part time study.
• Undertake a ‘package’ of provision and support across education, health and care that is appropriate to meet your needs and covers 5 days a week.

Sixth Form – 16 – 19 year olds

Some schools will have their own sixth form offer. Your school can tell you what subjects they are offering for sixth form learning. Qualifications are usually offered at level 3 such as A levels, T levels and BTec certificates and awards.

For a list of links to local sixth form provision within Wolverhampton, please visit Workbox.

Specialist school sixth forms offer programmes of learning from Entry Level up to Level 2. They usually focus on functional skills and vocational subjects and include support with life skills and preparation for work. Remaining in specialist sixth form ensures you continue to receive the same level of support you have had in school.

Tips for applying to colleges

• Call the college(s) you’re interested in
• Ask for a prospectus or college course guide.
• Look at their website.
• Is there an open day when you could visit?
• See facilities on offer and ask any questions you may have.
• Make an application as soon as possible. This is because places on some courses are limited.
• Some people apply to more than one college and make up their mind at a later stage.
• Keep in touch with the Careers Adviser who can advise you on which course(s) and college(s) may be suitable.

What do Colleges offer for young people with additional needs?

Colleges offer a wide range of courses including some that are specially designed for people with moderate and severe learning difficulties.

Every college has a Learning Support Department and a Learning Support Co-ordinator.

If you have an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) then apart of the Preparing for Adulthood will include contact being made with the co-ordinator. They can explain more about courses and discuss learning support needs.